This Women’s Day, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of Indian women who have dared to dream and defied all odds to turn those dreams into reality. From trailblazing entrepreneurs and visionary leaders to social changemakers and creative pioneers, these ten extraordinary women embody resilience, courage, and innovation.

Their journeys are not just personal triumphs but also a testament to the boundless potential of women in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for our nation. Through their inspiring stories, we honor their achievements and strive to ignite the same fire of determination in every woman across India.

Namita Thapar, CEO of Emcure Pharmaceuticals

Namita Thapar, CEO of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, is a renowned Indian entrepreneur celebrated for her impactful contributions to the healthcare sector. Her notable appearance on Shark Tank India has further cemented her status as an inspiring figure for budding entrepreneurs.

Hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, Namita Thapar belongs to a Gujarati family. Despite her affluent background, she has diligently carved a successful career path. Her academic journey includes a commerce degree from Pune University, a Chartered Accountancy degree from ICAI, and an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Namita began her professional journey as the Business Finance Lead at Guidant Corporation in the US. After gaining valuable experience, she joined her father’s company, Emcure Pharmaceuticals, as the CFO in 2007.

Under her leadership, Emcure Pharmaceuticals has seen remarkable growth, expanding its presence to 70 countries.

Abhaia Sharma, Founder – Regally Legal

Abhaia Sharma is a lawyer specializing in intellectual property and fashion law, carving a niche at the intersection of legal precision and the fashion industry. As the founder of Regally Legal, she has built a pioneering platform dedicated to making legal insights in fashion and business law more accessible for professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives.

Her journey into this field was driven by a passion for both law and fashion. While pursuing her LLM in International Business Law at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), she developed a strong interest in intellectual property law and its role in shaping the fashion industry. Upon returning to India, she recognized a significant gap in awareness about fashion law and its impact on businesses. This realization led her to launch Regally Legal, a platform designed to break down complex legal concepts into engaging and practical content.

Abhaia draws inspiration from pioneers like Susan Scafidi, who redefined the legal landscape of fashion, and business leaders who have strategically used intellectual property to build powerful brands. However, her journey was not without challenges. When she first introduced Regally Legal, fashion law was still an emerging field in India, and many underestimated its relevance. Establishing credibility, growing an audience, and proving the value of legal expertise in fashion required persistence, strategic content creation, and a deep commitment to educating her audience. Balancing her legal career, entrepreneurship, and content creation was demanding, but her vision kept her motivated.

Beyond her legal practice, Abhaia is deeply involved in mentorship and thought leadership. She has been invited to speak at institutions like Jesus and Mary College (JMC) and Pearl Academy, where she guides students on alternative career paths in law, fashion, and intellectual property. She also provides legal consultations for entrepreneurs and small business owners, helping them protect and scale their brands. With a focus on expanding Regally Legal, she is working on collaborations with major fashion brands and developing more resources for young lawyers and business owners.

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals is simple: success doesn’t come from following a traditional path—it comes from creating your own. She believes industries are increasingly interdisciplinary, and the biggest opportunities lie at the crossroads of different fields. Whether it’s law and fashion, tech and business, or art and innovation, those who can blend their passions into something impactful will shape the future.

What started as a small initiative has now grown into a recognizable name in the field of fashion law. Abhaia’s work has caught the attention of major fashion brands and legal professionals, validating the demand for legal education in creative industries. She now aims to scale Regally Legal into a larger platform—one that educates, collaborates, and influences decision-making in the fashion and business world.

Anchal Aggarwal

Jill Rahul Kothari

This Women’s Day, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of Indian women who have dared to dream and defied all odds to turn those dreams into reality. From trailblazing entrepreneurs and visionary leaders to social changemakers and creative pioneers, these ten extraordinary women embody resilience, courage, and innovation.

Their journeys are not just personal triumphs but also a testament to the boundless potential of women in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for our nation. Through their inspiring stories, we honor their achievements and strive to ignite the same fire of determination in every woman across India.

Vineeta Singh, CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics

Vineeta Singh, the founder and CEO of Sugar Cosmetics, is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, in India and beyond. Her journey began in Lucknow, where she excelled academically, earning gold medals in school and college. She later attended IIT Madras, where she discovered her passion for badminton, and IIM Ahmedabad, where she completed the Mumbai Marathon.

Despite receiving a lucrative offer in investment banking, Vineeta’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found Fab-Bag, a beauty subscription service, before launching SUGAR Cosmetics in 2015 with her husband, Kaushik Mukherjee. SUGAR filled a gap in the Indian beauty market by offering vibrant, high-quality cosmetics for diverse skin tones at affordable prices, resonating with young Indian women.

Vineeta’s journey, marked by initial setbacks and lessons learned, reflects her commitment to innovation and empowerment. As an investor and judge on Shark Tank India, she continues to inspire others with her insightful feedback and championing of innovative ideas. Vineeta’s story underscores the importance of self-belief and perseverance in achieving remarkable success.

Ekta Saigal Lulla, Founder – Weddings by ESL and ESL Events

Ekta Saigal Lulla, the founder of Weddings by ESL and ESL Events, never planned on becoming a wedding industry trailblazer—it just happened, like a series of “beautiful accidents.” From luxury hotels to wedding planning, she built a global brand known for crafting spectacular events that blend grandeur with deeply personal touches.

Her biggest inspiration is her father, whose selfless hard work shaped her values. While her journey has been fulfilling, balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and entrepreneur hasn’t always been easy. Yet, her passion and resilience have helped her navigate every challenge.

Starting with a three-member team in 2011, she transformed Weddings by ESL into a powerhouse, curating everything from intimate 70-guest ceremonies to extravagant 35,000-guest celebrations. She has collaborated with top designers like Rohit Bal and Vikram Phadnis and worked with renowned artists like Arijit Singh and Badshah. Her eight-year partnership with Aamby Valley is a testament to her ability to build lasting relationships.

For Ekta, weddings aren’t just about decor and logistics—they’re about bringing dreams to life. She ensures every detail aligns with her clients’ vision while maintaining a balance between creativity and practicality. Over the years, she has also embraced sustainable practices, blending opulence with eco-consciousness.

Beyond work, she finds joy in travel, music, and fitness. She believes self-care is key to excelling in both personal and professional life. “You can give your best to work and family only when you take care of yourself,” she says.

As weddings evolve into more intimate and experiential celebrations, Ekta welcomes the change. With her commitment to excellence and balance, she continues to redefine event planning, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Dr. Meenu Sethi, Founder and Director – Skyn Stories

Dr. Meenu Sethi’s journey to success is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and passion for dermatology. As the Founder and Director of Skyn Stories by Dr. Meenu Sethi, with two thriving branches in Gurgaon, she has built a reputable practice centered around patient care, innovation, and expertise.

Her love for healthcare began in childhood, eventually leading her to specialize in dermatology, where she honed her skills in aesthetics and laser treatments. Starting with a small cabin, she gradually expanded her practice, overcoming challenges with the unwavering support of her family, patients, and mentors.

Beyond her profession, Dr. Sethi finds balance through yoga, meditation, and continuous learning. She believes that success is not merely measured by professional achievements but by the positive impact one makes on people’s lives. With a commitment to personalized care, she helps her patients achieve healthy, radiant skin, boosting their confidence and well-being.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple yet powerful—stay focused, work hard, and never stop learning. Passion, perseverance, and compassion are the key ingredients to making a meaningful difference in any field.

Vijayalaxmi, Renowned Artist

Vijayalaxmi is a fine artist whose creative journey is deeply rooted in spirituality. With over 15 years of experience, her work transcends colors and canvases, becoming a medium through which she connects with the divine. “Art found me, not the other way around,” she says, reflecting on how painting has been an integral part of her life since childhood.

A self-taught artist, Vijayalaxmi draws inspiration from the beauty of the world and the emotional depth art can evoke. She admires the legacy of old masters, marveling at their ability to transform a blank canvas or a raw piece of stone into timeless masterpieces. Despite lacking formal training, she has earned recognition through immense dedication and perseverance. For Vijayalaxmi, the journey itself has been the most rewarding part.

Art is not just her profession but her way of life and form of worship. She spends her days immersed in creation, learning, and self-discovery, with each piece bringing her closer to a divine connection. “Through art, I worship Him. It’s how I connect with my creator,” she explains. She finds immense satisfaction in observing the profound emotional connection viewers establish with her Mahadev and Shakti paintings, deeply resonating with their spiritual essence. For her, painting is not just an artistic practice but a form of spiritual discipline—a divine sadhana expressed through her brush.

To aspiring artists, her advice is simple: stay true to yourself and your craft. “Hard work always pays off. Authenticity is your biggest strength. Don’t compromise on that.” She believes success is not a destination but a constant process of evolving, learning, and finding joy in creation.

Her journey as an artist has been one of transformation. “I am not creating art; art is creating me,” she says. With every stroke of her brush, Vijayalaxmi inspires others to embrace their passions and allow creativity to guide them.

Ankita Narsey, Founder – Oaktree Personal Finance and The GlobeHoppers

Ankita Narsey is a Mutual Fund Distributor and Holiday Planner, running two businesses—Oaktree Personal Finance and The GlobeHoppers. She helps her clients make smart investment decisions while also curating unforgettable travel experiences, blending her passion for finance and travel into a meaningful career.

Her journey began with a love for financial planning and a desire to help people secure their future through investments. At the same time, her passion for travel inspired her to turn planning holidays into a business. Combining these two fields allows her to make a positive impact on her clients’ financial stability and personal happiness.

Ankita draws inspiration from Radhika Gupta, MD & CEO of Edelweiss AMC, for her resilience and leadership in the finance industry. In the travel space, she looks up to entrepreneurs who have redefined the way people explore the world through personalized experiences.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Managing two professions requires excellent time management and multitasking. As a woman in the finance industry, earning trust in a male-dominated field was initially difficult, but her persistence, knowledge, and commitment to her clients helped her build strong relationships over time.

Outside of work, Ankita is a full-time mother who enjoys traveling, reading, playing badminton, and spending time outdoors. Physical fitness is a priority for her, and she ensures exercise is part of her daily routine.

To aspiring entrepreneurs, her message is clear: Stay persistent, adaptable, and focused on your clients. Building trust and maintaining a client-first approach are key, whether in finance or travel. Challenges will come, but with continuous learning and belief in your vision, success is achievable.

Ankita’s journey is one of constant growth and fulfillment. She takes pride in helping her clients secure their financial future while creating dream vacations for them. Seeing her clients achieve their goals, whether it’s a well-planned investment portfolio or a memorable holiday, makes all her efforts worthwhile.

Amulya Chitkara, Founder – SAGA

Amulya Chitkara is a PR professional and the founder of SAGA, a marketing agency with offices in Delhi and Mumbai, along with a production studio in Gurgaon. Her journey into the world of public relations wasn’t planned—it was a serendipitous turn of events that led her to discover her true calling.

Starting her career as a social media manager in Delhi during COVID, Amulya had no formal degree in PR—just curiosity, hard work, and a touch of luck. But what began as an unexpected opportunity soon turned into an undeniable passion. She quickly realized that PR isn’t just about visibility; it’s about crafting narratives that leave a lasting impact.

A defining moment in her career was working at Indulgeo Essentials under the guidance of its founder, Ms. Supriya—the last boss she ever had. Her mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping Amulya’s understanding of brand storytelling, strategic communication, and the power of meaningful relationships. Even today, Supriya’s influence remains a driving force behind Amulya’s journey.

With SAGA, Amulya has built a dynamic agency that provides end-to-end solutions for brands and creators, spanning PR, marketing, and production. Over the years, she has worked with some of the most renowned brands and individuals, leading high-impact campaigns and securing high-profile collaborations. She believes that PR is not just about making noise—it’s about building credibility, trust, and long-term influence.

For Amulya, inspiration comes from the people around her—her peers, industry leaders, and the creators she interacts with daily. She firmly believes that our surroundings shape who we become, and every connection brings an opportunity to learn and grow.

Dipika Dixit

Deepti Arora

Dr. Kanika Deewan

Dr. Nikita Surve

Viraj Ghelani

Introducing Viraj Ghelani, the seasoned comedy content creator who has seamlessly woven himself into the fabric of suburban Mumbai life. If you’ve ever found yourself chuckling at the quirks of suburban existence, chances are you’ve crossed paths with one of Viraj’s relatable videos. Particularly resonant with the Gujarati community, Viraj has become a familiar and beloved figure in the digital landscape.

Known for his contributions to Dice Media and FilterCopy videos, Viraj transitioned from the guy-next-door in web content to making his mark in Bollywood. Making his Dharma movie debut in “Govinda Naam Hai Mera” as Bhumi Pednekar’s boyfriend, Viraj has effortlessly extended his charm to the big screen.

Yet, beyond the screen, Viraj Ghelani remains a humble and passionate creator, drawing energy from his fans and finding inspiration in family bonds. His philosophy centers around embracing the present, acknowledging that every past experience converges to shape the cherished moments of today. This conversation unfolds the fascinating journey of Viraj, tracing his steps from the streets of Borivali to the grand stages of Bollywood.

Unnati Malharkar

In the world of fashion, where trends change like the wind, some individuals possess the unique ability to captivate audiences, shape styles, and inspire millions with their effortless flair. One such influential personality is Unnati Malharkar, a dancer, fashion influencer, and blogger whose creativity and distinctive style have made her a prominent figure in the industry.

Formerly started as a TikTok sensation and now an Instagram influencer, Unnati’s journey began like many others, but her undeniable talent and passion for dance and fashion set her apart from the crowd. She soon realized the power of self-expression through dancing. With a keen eye for detail and an uncanny ability to predict upcoming trends, she became a beacon of inspiration.

Her outfits effortlessly fuse chic couture with accessible pieces, making her style approachable for her followers. From trendy streetwear to elegant Indian wear, she flawlessly navigates the fashion landscape, encouraging her audience to experiment and embrace their own unique fashion identities.

Unnati Malharkar is more than just a content creator; she is a force to be reckoned with. Her creativity knows no bounds, and her impact on the digital landscape is undeniable. With each video she creates, she reminds us all the power of chasing our dreams, embracing our passions, and spreading happiness along the way.

Shreya Mahajan

Shreya Mahajan is the founder of The Social Sphere, a New Delhi-based marketing and PR agency specializing in creating innovative strategies for luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands. Alongside her entrepreneurial journey, she is a dedicated fashion and lifestyle content creator, sharing her passion for styling and personal expression.

Her journey began during the Covid-19 lockdown when Shreya started creating outfit inspiration content, giving life to her love for fashion. This creative exploration encouraged her to leave a stable corporate job and pursue a master’s in Fashion Marketing at Nottingham Trent University. Combining her marketing expertise, passion for fashion, and valuable internship experiences, Shreya launched her agency in March 2024.

Shreya finds inspiration in trailblazing women like Masoom Minawala and Falguni Nayar. However, her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. As a woman, she faced societal pressures and subtle judgments for stepping away from a conventional career path to follow her dreams. Building a career in a competitive industry while defying norms required resilience, but staying aligned with her vision kept her motivated.

To aspiring digital creators and influencers, Shreya emphasizes the importance of authenticity and consistency. She encourages them to embrace their individuality, create meaningful content for their audience, and experiment with fresh ideas. According to her, growth may take time, but perseverance, strategy, and staying true to oneself build a loyal community.

Shreya describes her success as a work in progress. From leaving a corporate job at Deloitte to building her own business and nurturing a community, each step has been a testament to her determination. With the support of her family, mentors, and personal resilience, she has steadily moved closer to her goals. Shreya hopes her story inspires others to trust in their abilities and take bold leaps of faith toward their dreams.

Patralekha

Patralekha is a fashion stylist and influencer who has turned her passion for style and creative expression into a thriving career. Known for her ability to curate unique and personal looks for her niche clientele, she brings a blend of artistry and individuality to everything she does.

From an early age, she was the go-to friend for outfit advice and closet makeovers, always experimenting with colors, textures, and fresh ideas. Sharing her styled outfits on Instagram was a turning point—what began as a hobby quickly grew into a profession, fueled by admiration for her fashion sense and her ability to inspire confidence through style.

Drawing inspiration from global fashion icons and everyday people alike, Patralekha finds beauty in the way personal style reflects individuality. She believes that creativity thrives when authenticity meets boldness. Her journey, however, hasn’t been without challenges.

Breaking into the competitive fashion industry required resilience, especially as she worked to establish her voice in a space that often favors convention over innovation. Balancing the artistic side of styling with the practical demands of being a digital creator was another hurdle, but she’s met it head-on, staying true to her vision while navigating the pressures of engagement and validation.

When she isn’t styling, Patralekha channels her creativity into painting and creating unique artworks, another avenue where her artistic spirit shines. Her advice to aspiring creators is simple: stay original and focused. In a fast-paced digital world, she believes authenticity and persistence set people apart.

Her success is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and the joy of inspiring others to embrace their confidence through fashion. For Patralekha, fashion isn’t just about clothes—it’s about empowering people to feel good in their own skin.

Iti Khinchi

Iti Khinchi is a mom blogger and digital creator known for sharing the humorous and relatable aspects of motherhood through her engaging reels and content. She connects with other mothers by offering a light-hearted perspective on the everyday chaos of parenting, turning the often challenging moments into shared experiences filled with laughter and support.

Iti’s journey into mom blogging began when she found motherhood to be more complex than she initially thought. Seeking a creative outlet to navigate this new chapter of her life, she started documenting her experiences and venting her frustrations. What began as a personal project quickly grew into a platform where she could connect with other moms. Her reels, capturing the hilarity of daily parenting moments, resonated with many, marking the start of her successful career as a mom blogger.

The community of moms Iti has connected with serves as her biggest inspiration. Each mother’s unique story and struggle remind her that she is not alone, and their resilience and creativity continually motivate her. As a woman, Iti has faced the challenge of balancing personal and professional life amidst high societal expectations. However, she has found that embracing her imperfections and sharing them openly has been key to building a genuine and supportive community.

Beyond creating content, Iti is deeply involved in her daughter’s upbringing, which remains her top priority. She also explores new hobbies, from trying different forms of art to reading books that inspire creativity and growth. Being present in her family’s life and creating lasting memories together is essential to her.

To aspiring digital creators and influencers, Iti emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and one’s story. Authenticity, she believes, is what resonates most with people. She encourages others not to fear sharing the messy, imperfect parts of life, as real connections are forged in those moments. Patience is also crucial—success doesn’t happen overnight. Iti advises focusing on building a community rather than just a following, as the rewards will naturally follow.

For Iti, success is not measured by numbers or accolades but by the smiles and laughter of her family when they watch her reels and the supportive comments from her community. Every time she brightens someone’s day or helps a fellow mom feel less alone, she considers it a success. Her journey is about discovering new facets of herself and finding joy in the everyday moments of motherhood.

Meghna Verma

Meghna Verma is a corporate lawyer, enrolled with the Delhi Bar Association, who has also gained experience as an educator. After living in Hyderabad, she returned to her hometown, New Delhi.

During the pandemic, she, like many others, felt the mental strain caused by social distancing. To maintain her well-being, Meghna ventured into the digital world, quickly building connections and discovering a passion for content creation.

Inspired by figures in fitness, motherhood, food blogging, and fashion, she loves trying new things and sharing her experiences. However, Meghna has faced challenges as an influencer, particularly the misconception that the role is easy and requires minimal effort. She knows the reality is different—balancing home responsibilities with external commitments demands discipline and the ability to improvise. Meghna emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong mental and physical health to meet the demands of a hectic schedule.

As a homemaker, she thrives on balancing her family life with pursuits outside the home. Meghna advises aspiring influencers to work with dedication, commitment, and passion, always promoting what they truly believe in. For her, authenticity and simplicity are key to making a real impact.

Roohi Baweja

Roohi Baweja is a luxury fashion and lifestyle influencer, an editor in the fashion & lifestyle beat in the Luxurious lifestyle newspaper ‘Zoom Delhi’. With a background in interior design and computers, Roohi has also gained experience working with Amul India in the administration and HR departments.

A year ago, she embarked on her journey into the world of fashion influencing, and since then, her presence has grown significantly. Roohi has had the privilege of being associated with various prestigious fashion and lifestyle brands. She’s been a part of FDCI Couture Week, sharing the front row with celebrities and renowned designers such as Bobby Deol, Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Sonam Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Neha Dhupia, Jay Sean, Sonakshi Sinha, Sabyasachi, Dolly J, Rohit Bal, and Gaurav Gupta.

Roohi is also known for showcasing the latest collections from international luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Valentino, and Bulgari. She regularly visits these high-end stores to present their newest pieces to her audience, bringing global fashion trends directly to her followers.